I think Esche, after the season he had last year, and the playoff run he enjoyed, is on track to become one of the elite goalies in the league. I wouldn't put him up there with Marty just yet, but I bet you could real soon. He plays in a system, that will help elevate his game.

I think Esche, after the season he had last year, and the playoff run he enjoyed, is on track to become one of the elite goalies in the league. I wouldn't put him up there with Marty just yet, but I bet you could real soon. He plays in a system, that will help elevate his game.

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Whoa, slow down there. Esche is clearly a good goaltender, and his stock is obviously on the rise, but to say that he may soon be on par with Marty is going over the top.

Esche is right now the more solid of the 3. Better rebound control and better lateral movement than the other 2. In the past his problem has been going down too early but he looks sharp right now.

Dipietro probably has better reflexes and better positioning, and is certainly a better puckhandler, but his problem has always been betwen his ears. He gets over-excited and bad goals can haunt him for a while.

Conklin's problem is between his legs (har!), seriously how many goals in the five hole in exhibition. Once he starts moving holes open up all over the place. Can look brillaint at times but makes saves look harder than they are. Usually a warning sign.

If Wilson was serious about giving time to a back-up it should be Dipietro, no question.

Esche was the only reason that the US kept it close with the Russians tonight. Wilson may be nervous about going with Conklin or Dipietro against the Slovaks. If the US loses this game they could face Canada in Toronto for their quarterfinal matchup.